As the year-end festivities approach, many find joy in the preparations leading up to the merry season. Amidst outfit selections, gift hunts, and party arrangements, a well-deserved pampering session often becomes an integral part of the routine. Whether it’s a lavish spa indulgence, a fresh manicure, or a transformative hairstyle, the mantra of ‘treat yourself’ resonates louder than ever after a year of relentless hustle.
For those opting for a bold change, a newly dyed hair color can be a refreshing choice, providing a sense of transformation well before the dawn of the new year. Noteworthy celebrities, such as Dua Lipa flaunting her autumn-red mane and Rihanna showcasing honey-blonde tresses, have embraced this trend with enthusiasm.
However, vibrant hair hues demand dedicated maintenance, particularly when aiming to preserve the color’s vibrancy into the new year. A curated selection of after-dye care products, ranging from color-specific shampoos to nourishing masks and leave-in serums, plays a crucial role in ensuring the longevity of your new hairdo. To offer expert insights into an effective in-shower aftercare routine, we consulted Den Ng, a celebrity hairstylist and director of Prep Luxe Salon. Below, we present a masterclass on caring for freshly-dyed tresses, along with Ng’s endorsed product recommendations for optimal maintenance.
Caring for Freshly-Dyed Hair:
To maintain the brilliance of your freshly-dyed hair, Ng recommends adopting a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo specifically formulated for color-treated hair. Sulphates, known to strip color and dry out hair, should be avoided. Additionally, washing with cool or lukewarm water is advised, as hot water can expedite color fading. Limit the use of heat styling tools, such as flat irons and blow dryers, to prevent damage and color loss.
Post-Dye Washing Timeline:
Ng suggests waiting at least 24 hours before the first shampoo wash after a dye appointment. This interval allows the dye to set in, minimizing the risk of premature color fading.
Nourishing Colored and Bleached Tresses:
To combat dryness and frizz, Ng advocates for a weekly deep conditioning mask tailored for moisture and nourishment. Post-wash, the application of a leave-in conditioner helps lock in moisture, providing sustained hydration throughout the day. Concentrate the product on the ends of the hair, where dryness tends to be more pronounced.
Ng’s Recommended Products:
1. Shampoo: L’Oréal Serie Expert Prokeratin Liss Unlimited Shampoo, $26.90
2. Conditioner: Olaplex No.5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner, $51
3. Hair Mask: L’Oréal Professional Serie Expert Metal Detox DX Masque, $63
4. Leave-in Serum: Goldwell Kerasilk Smooth Soft Amazing Taming Balm, $46
Incorporating these expert tips and products into your aftercare routine will not only enhance the longevity of your freshly-dyed hair color but also ensure that it remains vibrant, healthy, and full of life well into the new year.
